Surgical masks otherwise known as 3 ply masks have been a staple of medicine for a long time. They effectively protect its wearers from droplets and help slow down the rate of infection for airborne diseases. However when you need a piece of kit with a little more power, a new type of mask has to be developed.
The mask was developed in response to a disease which had spread in the manchuria region in northeast asia. The disease was so deadly that it killed 100% of people it infected within 24-48 hours of showing symptoms. The Imperial Chinese government needed a solution quickly. They turned to Penang born Doctor Wu Lien Teh. Manchurian plague as it was called was being described as apocalyptic. The culprit behind its transmission was believed to be the fleas and rats. In contrast to this belief Dr. Wu had determined that transmission was done person to person and immediately put into effect multiple measures, including building disinfections, cremation of infected dead bodies and a quarantine. These measures were effective in slowing the rate of infection greatly. His most crucial development however was a step forward in terms of knowledge and how to apply it.
Wu expanded on the 3 ply masks widely used in the west substantially adding to their effects with layers of gauze and cotton. The new mask wrapped fully around the mouth and nose effectively reducing the amount of particles reaching the mouth and nose. While effective many doubted that the masks were effective and the airborne nature of the disease. One French Doctor named Gerald Mesny refused to believe the theory and equipment put forward by Wu. He entered into a facility where patients with the disease were being treated. After being exposed he died from it 2 days later as a result of not wearing the proper protective equipment.
Following the successful control of the Manchurian plague Dr. Wu received the title of “Plague Fighter” for his efforts and was nominated for a nobel prize in 1953. Wu was the first Malaysian to be nominated and his accomplishments have been remembered with street names and statues. Heroes like Dr. Wu should be remembered in our history books for the contribution to the health sector which has carried through into our modern world and for giving us the best defense against COVID-19, the N95 Respirator mask.
